How to Make Vietnamese Noodle Soup with Fish
Vietnamese noodle soup with fish, known as Phở cá, is a delicious and aromatic dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. This dish combines fresh ingredients and fragrant herbs, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Follow this guide to create your own homemade version of Phở cá!
Ingredients
- 300 grams of white fish fillets (such as catfish or tilapia)
- 150 grams of rice noodles (bánh phở)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
- 2-3 stalks of green onions, chopped
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro and Thai basil)
- 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Water or fish stock (about 1.5 liters)
- Chili slices, lime wedges, and bean sprouts for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Begin by cleaning the fish fillets. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. If the fillets have skin, you may choose to remove it depending on your preference.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté the ingredients until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the water or fish stock and bring it to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Rice Noodles
While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this means soaking them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Add the Fish
Once the broth is ready, add the fish fillets to the pot. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Step 5: Assemble the Soup
In serving bowls, place a portion of the cooked rice noodles. Ladle the hot fish broth with fish over the noodles. Top with chopped green onions, fresh herbs, and additional chili slices for those who enjoy some heat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Vietnamese noodle soup with fish with lime wedges and bean sprouts on the side. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup for added flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family!
Tips for the Perfect Phở cá
- Feel free to customize the type of herbs you use based on your preferences. Other herbs like mint or perilla can add interesting flavors.
- If you prefer a richer broth, consider adding fish bones or shrimp shells during the simmering process and straining them out before adding the fish.
- For extra texture, you can also add vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms to the soup.
Making Vietnamese noodle soup with fish at home is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors of this beloved dish. Enjoy your homemade Phở cá and share the joy of Vietnamese cuisine with others!